On The Go: California’s Bounty of Fall Fun

California is most certainly the land of plenty. With its snow-capped mountain ranges, deep lush valleys; big cities full of culture and small cities chock-full of charm. There really is no place in the Golden State that doesn’t offer something to see and do. Experience the California sunshine all year ’round!

Throughout the month of October, the city of Santa Barbara will host special events to celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month. Events will take place on October 29 and include pop-up piano performances and a walkthrough of the Historic Theater District to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Santa Barbara’s Office of Arts & Culture. Don’t miss the one-of-a-kind paired pianos along State Street, too!

The city will also host the annual Santa Barbara Chowder Fest, scheduled for November 5. This event is all about the chowder and features music, food, wine, and beer! To learn more about Santa Barbara’s fall offerings, visit santabarbara.com.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, located in Long Beach, celebrates its 20th anniversary this fall, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate in addition to the regular exhibits. There’s the Scarium of the Pacific, complete with costume contest and underwater pumpkin carving on October 27 and 28, and the Haunted Atlantis DJ Party on the 28th, all celebrating Halloween aquarium-style. Come November, there’s the Autumn Festival at the Aquarium of the Pacific, scheduled for November 17-18. The Autumn Festival celebrates Asian arts, cuisines, cultures, and marine environments with both educational and entertaining exhibits and activities.

Speaking of Halloween… the Queen Mary in Long Beach hosts 23 nights of terror from September 27 through November 2 with their Dark Harbor attraction. Considered one of the most haunted places on Earth, a visit to this ship that served as both a wartime and peacetime vessel is guaranteed to get you in the Halloween spirit.

The Queen Mary at night

San Diego is another Southern California destination that can be even more enjoyable come autumn. While the weather is most agreeable in the fall, the city actually records fewer tourist and convention visits during this time of year. Visit this charming city and plan on taking in the San Diego Wine+Food Festival. Running from November 11-18, 2019, this event is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the U.S. Guests can enjoy cooking classes, tasting events and of course, plenty of food and spirits at various locations around San Diego. For more information visit sandiegowineclassic.com.

San Diego Bay Food + Wine Festival®

If you want a break from all the food and libations, check out the 72nd Annual Mother Goose Parade on November 18, which kicks off the holiday season! Expect magical floats, marching bands, and a whole lot of whimsical fun. The parade also features giant helium balloon characters including those of Mother Goose and Santa Claus. For more information visit cityofelcajon.us.